Monk Defends Making 8 Changes For FA Cup

Swansea City head coach Garry Monk has defended his decision to make 8 changes to his team for their FA Cup 5th round tie at Everton last Sunday.

The Swans have received criticism from the likes of the ITV pundits and the press for naming such a weakened team, saying they've 'missed an opportunity to progress' and have 'insulted the competition'.

However, the Swans have another two cup games coming up, both against Napoli in the Europa League, as well as some important League games as they aim to move further away from the relegation zone.

You also have to remember that Swansea City are no Manchester City. They are not blessed with a host of star players and they need to keep as many of them fresh and fit for the vital games ahead. Garry Monk will surely make a few more chances for Thursday's home game against Napoli as the League becomes a top priority.

'When you have got seven games in 21 days it is impossible to play the same 11 in every game,'

'I can only judge the boys on the week I have had and their attitude has been magnificent, every one.

'From the first day I said everyone would play and I was true to my word.

'It is a squad game. Everyone seems to be amazed when there are rotations.

'With Europe you have to have that rotation. Every side I pick is a team to try and win the game.'

What the media and other critics fail to mention though is that the Swans competed well with a good Everton side at Goodison Park. They looked promising in the first half and probably should have been in front at half time, but the game went away from them following Taylor's error to give the Toffees the lead. Jazz Richards then conceded a penalty as Everton eventually won 3-1.

Monk was upbeat about the performance despite the result:

'For the future I think it looks good. Going forward I think it bodes well they're willing to learn and take it on,'

'I think effort-wise and the application from the players, we've only been with them for a week and they're trying to take on new ideas.

'I'm pretty amazed with the week and how much they've taken on board.

'If we can get to a position where you get a longer period to work with them then you can really implement some ideas, a way of playing and an attitude that can do well for the club.'

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